On Dec. 16, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the sentencing of Ronnel Tiburcio, one of three individuals convicted of severely neglecting and abusing six disabled residents at an unlicensed Riverside care facility.
Tiburcio was found guilty of six felony counts of elder abuse likely to cause great bodily harm or death, and was sentenced to seven years in state prison on Dec. 13, 2024.
The victims, aged 32 to 66, were discovered malnourished, dehydrated and living in squalid conditions without adequate care.
According to a press release from Bonta’s office, the facility lacked proper licensing, staff and equipment required to meet the needs of its residents.
“Individuals entrusted with the care of elderly and dependent adults have the utmost responsibility for their well-being and safety,” said Bonta. “At the California Department of Justice, we will not tolerate elder abuse or neglect and will ensure accountability for those who exploit or harm vulnerable individuals. I commend my team and the Riverside Police Department for bringing justice to these victims.”
The case involved two additional defendants. Joel Ombao, owner of multiple hospice companies including the unlicensed Secure Hands board and care facility where the abuse occurred, was sentenced to five years in state prison on July 1, 2024.
Nimfa Molina, a registered nurse involved in the operation, received a 122-day jail sentence on Oct. 13, 2023.
Authorities uncovered the abuse following an investigation into Secure Hands.
Residents were found emaciated, living in filthy conditions and deprived of necessary medical and personal care.
The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA), which spearheaded the investigation, is tasked with protecting Californians from abuse, neglect and fraud targeting elderly and dependent adults, as well as Medi-Cal fraud.
The division receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with the remaining 25% provided by the State of California.
Bonta emphasized the importance of protecting the state’s most vulnerable populations.
“This sentencing sends a clear message: We will pursue justice for victims and hold perpetrators of elder abuse accountable,” he said.
The investigation and prosecution highlight the continued efforts of California’s Department of Justice to address elder abuse and safeguard the welfare of dependent adults in the state.
